FA Cup draws Villa at the Lane

Sheffield United will faceAston Villa in the third round of the FA Cup following this afternoon`s draw.

The Blades, who were knocked out of last season`s tournament against Bolton Wanderers will face a home tie against Gerard Houllier`s side, whom they beat back in 2005.

Villa, are currently amidst a slump in the league and will travel to Bramall Lane in January hoping for different fortunes in the Cup.

Sergio Pizzorno drew the Blades' number 35 ball out of the hat in the draw which will also see Sheffield Wednesday travel to United's recent conquerors Bristol City, and Manchester United draw rivals Liverpool.

It will be the sixth time the sides have met in the competition with United winning two ties, and losing three (one game was a replay in 1901).